Flu Season is Here: Protecting Yourself and Your Family from the Influenza Virus

Flu Season is Here: Protecting Yourself and Your Family from the Influenza Virus

As the weather cools and we gather indoors, the dreaded flu season descends upon us. Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can even lead to death. This comprehensive guide provides essential information to help you and your family stay healthy and protected throughout the flu season.

Understanding the Flu

Influenza viruses are primarily spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Symptoms of the Flu:  

The flu often comes on suddenly and can include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches  
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.  

It’s important to note that not everyone with the flu will have a fever.  

Why is the Flu a Concern?

While many people recover from the flu within a few days to less than two weeks, some develop complications (such as pneumonia) which can be life-threatening and result in death. Those at higher risk of developing serious flu complications include:

• Young children
• Adults 65 years of age and older
• Pregnant women
• People with certain chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease

The Cornerstone of Flu Prevention: Vaccination

The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated every year.

• How the Flu Vaccine Works: Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are in the vaccine.  
• Who Should Get Vaccinated: The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions.  
• When to Get Vaccinated: It’s best to get vaccinated early in the fall, before flu season begins. However, getting vaccinated later can still be beneficial.
• Types of Flu Vaccines: There are different flu vaccines available, including inactivated influenza vaccines (IIV), recombinant influenza vaccines (RIV), and live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV). Talk to your doctor about which vaccine is right for you.

Beyond Vaccination: Everyday Preventive Actions

While vaccination is crucial, practicing everyday preventive actions can also help stop the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses, like the flu.

• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.  
• Respiratory Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in the trash and immediately wash your hands. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.  
• Avoid Close Contact: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• Stay Home When Sick: If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.  
• Avoid Touching Your Face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.  

What to Do if You Get Sick

If you get the flu, antiviral drugs can be used to treat your illness. Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics. They are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) and are not available over-the-counter.  

• Benefits of Antiviral Drugs: Antiviral drugs can lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by 1 or 2 days. They also can prevent serious flu complications, like pneumonia.  
• When to Take Antiviral Drugs: It’s best to start antiviral drugs as early as possible, within 48 hours of getting sick. However, starting them later can still be helpful, especially if you have a high-risk condition or are very sick.

Staying Informed

Flu viruses are constantly changing, so it’s important to stay informed about the latest recommendations and information.

• Reliable Sources: Consult with your healthcare provider and refer to trusted sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for up-to-date information on flu prevention and treatment.

Key Takeaways:

• Flu season is a serious public health concern, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
• Vaccination is the best defense against the flu.
• Practice everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.
• If you get sick, stay home and consult with your healthcare provider about antiviral treatment options.
• Stay informed about the latest flu information and recommendations from trusted sources.

By following these recommendations, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting the flu and help keep your family healthy throughout the flu season.